Innovations Your Cosmetic Dentist May Have

Your cosmetic dentist has innovations at his fingertips that could make your visit much more comfortable. Talk to him about these options if you are considering improving your smile. Like the medical field, dentistry is always evolving and changing. If you are planning to visit a cosmetic dental professional, you may find that there are some innovations in the field that you never knew about. Here are some of the recent innovations that these dentists may have in their offices.

Computer Controlled Injection of Anesthesia:
Some dentists are now using a computer controlled injection system for delivering anesthesia. This allows the dental practitioner to deliver the exact amount of anesthesia the patient needs for the treatment he or she is having. This system also delivers some anesthesia before the injection, so patients feel little, if any, of the pin prick from their injection. Patients who live in fear of the dental anesthesia needle can rest comfortably if their cosmetic dentist uses this procedure.

Invisalign:
Invisalign is a nearly invisible set of plastic aligners used to straighten teeth, much in the same way braces do, but without the unsightly metal brackets. Many adult patients who need to have their teeth straightened find this to be a very workable solution that saves the embarrassment of traditional braces. Also, because they can be removed during meals and when you are brushing, these aligners allow you to better care for your teeth.

Fast Tooth Whitening:
In the past, a visit to the cosmetic dentist for tooth whitening sent the patient home with trays of bleach to use every night. While this can still be the way teeth are whitened, today's dental offices have access to technology that allows whitening up to 12 shades lighter at one sitting in just an hour or so. A newly discovered oxygenation process allows the teeth to absorb the whitening chemicals much more quickly and effectively.

Digital X-Rays:
Dentists of all types are now switching from traditional x-rays to digital technology. This allows them to see the teeth much more clearly, pinpoint decaying problems, and make plans for restorative services. A cosmetic dentist may be able to use these digital x-rays to plan for implant placement. The digital x-rays are not only clearer, but they are also faster, and can detect more problems than traditional films.

Mini Implants:
Some patients with missing teeth can skip the pain and frustration of oral surgery by opting for mini dental implants. Talk to your dental professional about this option if you need an implant. With a mini implant, you can replace that missing tooth without the need for surgery and numerous return visits to the doctor's office. Not all patients are candidates for mini implants, but those that are can save about half of the cost of their implants as well as the time necessary for recovery and return visits.

Your cosmetic dentist is part of an every-developing field. As new research and innovations come to fruition, you, the patient, will benefit. So if you are considering taking steps to make your smile more beautiful, take the time to talk to your dental office about the newest innovations that might apply to your situation.